To change jobs or switch to a new residence visa (for example, a Golden Visa) or to exit the UAE permanently, the UAE residence visa must be cancelled first. By knowing what’s involved, you can prevent delays, penalties, and unwelcome hassles. The cancellation process is typically a process that is undertaken by the visa sponsor and is completed in accordance with UAE immigration procedures, as outlined here.
The process of cancelling an employment visa and a family-sponsored residence visa is different. Knowing who can apply, what documentation is required, and how long you will have following the cancellation of your visa is very important.
Who Can Cancel a UAE Residence Visa?
A residence visa is normally only revoked by the visa sponsor. For employees, this means the employer must initiate the cancellation process. It is the sponsoring family member that will be required to submit the request for family visas. Generally, employees cannot cancel their visas without a sponsor’s involvement.
A visa for your spouse, children, or other dependents will be cancelled prior to your residence visa being cancelled if you sponsor them. It is one of the most impactful rules in the UAE visa system and is a surprise for many residents.
How to Cancel an Employment Visa
There are two ways to cancel an employment visa: Visa cancellation is a process in which the employer is expected to attend to the private sector. The first step is cancellation of the labour contract and work permit by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
The employees must check that they have received any pending salaries, end of service benefits and gratuity payments, and all other dues, if any, under the contract, before signing any cancellation documents. Employees should not sign settlement documents until all payments have been received, UAE authorities have advised.
After the labour contract and work permit are cancelled, the employer will submit a request to the immigration authorities for the cancellation of the residence visa. Once approved, the employee will be issued with a cancellation document, including details relating to the grace period that applies.
Documents Required for Employment Visa Cancellation
The exact requirements may vary depending on the employer and emirate. However, common documents include:
- Original passport
- Emirates ID
- Signed visa cancellation form
- Work permit or labour card details
- Final settlement confirmation from the employer
These documents help immigration authorities verify the cancellation request and complete the process smoothly.
How to Cancel a Family Residence Visa
Residents who sponsor family members can opt to cancel their dependent visa via registered typing centres, Amer centres in Dubai or online government platforms. The sponsor will need to fill out the application, and submit all the necessary documentation to both parties.
Sponsors typically require the following for an in-person application:
- Original passport of the sponsor
- Original passport of the dependent
- Emirates IDs of both individuals
The service centre will complete and submit the application online via the immigration system.
Online Visa Cancellation Process
Additionally, the UAE government provides an opportunity to cancel family visas digitally. UAEICP’s mobile app, ICP website or Dubai’s GDRFA online services can be used by the residents. These services are usually available to those with access to a UAE PASS account.
Once logged in, sponsors must choose the residency cancellation service, the dependent from which the visa is being cancelled and verify personal information and give contact details. The system then issues a one-time password to confirm before payment is made.
The sponsor will receive an e-mail and SMS once the application is approved. The notification also contains details regarding the grace period after cancellation.
Visa Cancellation Fees
The online dependent residence visa cancellation fee is estimated to be AED 150, as of the latest information available. There may be additional charges for the services depending on the service centre and processing method used.
Otherwise, the cancellation of employment visas will be carried out by the employer in the context of offboarding costs. Normally the fees are not paid by the employee.
Also Read: UAE Fuel Prices Jump in June 2026 as Petrol Hits Highest Level in Nearly Four Years
Understanding the Grace Period
Once a residence visa is cancelled, a grace period is usually provided for the resident to leave the UAE, change sponsors or apply for a new residence visa. Details of the length of time depend on the type of visa and immigration laws.
Be on time or face penalties for exceeding the time limit. The current rules state that AED 50 per day will be imposed on the overstayer after the grace period.
Important Things to Do Before Cancelling Your Visa
However before initiating the cancellation process, residents who wish to relocate their permanent residency to another country should also attend to some practicalities. They can include resolving any outstanding fines, cancelling bank accounts, closing credit card accounts and settling loans.
With proper planning, the transition should be smoother and avoid some administrative problems on leaving the country. If employees are seeking to change jobs within the UAE, they can also assist in a smooth visa transfer process by coordinating with their current and future employers.